Frequently Asked Questions

Contents

General Admission Requirements

What are the requirements for applying to the Smeal MBA program?

We have identified four major criteria that, when considered together, will help us confidently evaluate potential for success. These criteria are 1) academic ability, 2) work experience, 3) leadership skills, and 4) fit with the Smeal MBA program

I already have my MBA. May I still apply to the Smeal MBA Program?

We do not accept applicants who already have an MBA from a U.S. Institution (or the equivalent of an MBA). Candidates who have an internationally awarded MBA may still be eligible. For questions regarding eligibility, please email: smealmba@psu.edu.

May I transfer into the Smeal MBA program?

A maximum of six credits may be transferred into the Smeal MBA program. Due to the integrative nature of the core curriculum and the structure of our program, any transfer credits will count as electives and the full four semesters of study will still be required.

Does the program require any pre-requisite mathematical and computer skills?

While these are not required for admission, we've found that an understanding of analytical thinking and quantitative tools has a significant influence on success in the program. While we expect students to be competent in algebra, comfortable with the use of spreadsheets, and have basic knowledge of statistics, there are no prerequisites. Students from all academic backgrounds are welcome to apply. We strongly advise all incoming students, after enrolling and before their arrival on campus, complete MBA Math.

Should I take any particular courses to prepare for the MBA?

While we have no prerequisites for enrollment, students with limited quantitative backgrounds may benefit from taking accounting and business statistics in advance of enrollment. Becoming comfortable with Excel would also be valuable. In addition, the MBA Program offers pre-term courses during orientation which provide brief overviews of accounting, quantitative methods, finance, and/or Excel. We strongly advise all incoming students, after enrolling and before their arrival on campus, complete MBA Math.

Does Smeal require every MBA student to own a computer?

Yes. All MBA students are required to own a laptop. Many courses during the MBA program will require access to online tools and applications and most students bring their laptops to class.

What is the best way for me to learn about the Business School?

Begin by browsing the Smeal MBA and Penn State websites, particularly our Visits and Events page. A great way to get to know the program is to visit campus during an "MBA Open Houses" which includes attending a class, going to lunch with a current student, and attending a group information session led by an Admissions team member. Or schedule an individual visit to campus by emailing visitsmealmba@psu.edu. If you can't make it to campus, we also offer many opportunities to interact virtually. Our webcast series is available on iTunes University and we will offer skype hours where prospective students can speak with current students or staff to get their perspective on the program. You'll also find a list of our alumni receptions and other events throughout the US and internationally. You are also encouraged to connect with current students and staff via email at smealmba@psu.edu.

Can I speak to an admissions counselor? How do I find out if I am qualified?

The best way to contact our office with specific questions about the MBA Program and application process is to email your inquiry at smealmba@psu.edu or call 800-379-6445 to speak with someone on the Admissions team.

Please keep in mind that we cannot evaluate your qualifications before you apply. The evaluation process looks at your entire application, and compares that profile against the larger applicant pool in each round. Therefore, it is impossible for us to tell you in advance your chances of admission.

We would however be glad to assist you with any other queries regarding eligibility with respect to degree requirements or GMAT or GRE and TOEFL or IELTS requirements or the admission process in general. We would be glad to provide you with any information regarding the Smeal MBA program or the application process.

Where do I send my supplemental application materials?

Please send all your supplemental application materials to:

MBA AdmissionsSmeal College of BusinessThe Pennsylvania State University220 Business BuildingUniversity Park, PA 16802

How much does the letter of recommendation, interview, GMAT/GRE etc., matter? Do you weigh one more than others?

The entire application package is viewed in its entirety. No specific parameter is weighed more than the other.

Is there an age limit for applying to the Full-time MBA Program?

No. We accept applications without any age discrimination. Our average students age is 27, but we have students who come in above and below this average age.

Can I submit my application if I am missing a required item (i.e., GMAT/GRE results, originals of my transcripts)?

We can not proceed with evaluating your application until all materials are submitted. However, if you are approaching an application deadline and are still missing an item, please contact our admission team to discuss your specific situation.

What is your application fee?

Our application fee is $65.

Can you waive my application fee?

The Penn State Smeal MBA offers financial support and fee waivers equitably as a need-blind, merit-based award program. We offer financial aid based on the total strength of a candidates' application rather than on financial need. We want to ensure that we're applying fair practices with every candidate. We also try to keep our application fee low compared to the industry so that it does not become a barrier to application. Therefore, Application Fee Waivers are only offered in the cases below. If you qualify under one of the following, please e-mail smealmba@psu.edu with your qualification status to request a fee waiver code.

Penn State Alumni

Active duty U.S. military at anytime

Individuals reapplying to the Penn State Smeal MBA program from a previous year

Prospects who are referred to the program by a member of the Penn State Community

Letters of Recommendation

Whom should I pick to write my recommendations? Can the Letters of Recommendation be written by professors?

We require written evaluations from two recommenders, preferably from your immediate supervisors or anybody who can comment on your work. This could include your clients. Because working with a team is a critical part of the Smeal MBA experience, one of the letters of reference could be from a peer or team member about your teamwork and leadership skills.

Academic recommendations are acceptable if you are applying straight out of an undergraduate program or if you have worked with the recommender as a teaching assistant, researcher, or in a similar capacity. We however encourage you to provide recommendations from your work place where applicable.

It is important that you select a recommender who knows you well and is willing to dedicate the time to convey your experience in detail. In-depth recommendations are more important than well-known names or titles.

Is there a specific format required for the letters of recommendation?

The Smeal format of the letter of recommendation is available on our application instructions page. You are requested to send in your two recommendations in the specified format. If you wish to include an additional recommendation, you can send in that with the supplemental materials.

May I submit more than two recommendations?

The admissions committee suggests only 2 professional letters of recommendation be submitted. If you believe that a third recommendation will add significant value to your application or will help the admission committee get a different perspective about you, you may send an additional recommendation along with your supplemental materials.

Can my relatives or friends write a letter of recommendation for me?

Two recommendations from individuals who can accurately speak to your past are required for the Smeal MBA admissions application. Recommendations from personal friends, relatives, or family acquaintances are not appropriate. We prefer letters be written by employers or professional colleagues.

I cannot get a letter of recommendation from my current boss as he/she does not know about my intent of returning to graduate school. What advice do you have for me?

Think of another work-related source, such as a client or a manager from another department who knows your skills. Perhaps you could ask a former manager who has left the company. What we are looking for is a recommendation from someone who knows your work well, preferably from a supervisory and/or a team member's perspective.

Application Essay

What do you look for in the admission essay?

While your test scores, recommendations, and work experience tell us a lot about what you have done, your essay helps us learn about you - your values, passions, interests and beliefs.

General guidelines for the essay:

Take time to think, and then write—this is not an easy question to answer. There are no "right" answers. The Admissions Committee will review your response when evaluating your application. Please be genuine, specific, and concise in your response. Please include your full name and the question number at the top of each page. Please limit your response to the word count provided.

Is it imperative to stick to the word limit?

Clarity and brevity are critical to effective professional communications. As far as possible please be approximately near the word limit for your essay. If it is imperative, you may go slightly above the limit.

What is the essay question on the application?

We require applicants to write one essay on their application. It addresses future goals and how the Penn State Smeal MBA program will help you achieve them. In addition you will also be asked to submit 3 responses to video questions selected at random. For more information on the written essay and video questions please see our application instructions page.

What do I write in the additional information section?

Please use your judgment to decide what you put in this section. In general, any information that you think would aid the admissions committee in making a decision and that is not covered anywhere else in the application can be included here.

GMAT/GRE, TOEFL/IELTS and GPA

What is the TOEFL requirement for International applicants?

The TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) is required of all applicants whose native language is not English. International candidates who have not received a degree from a U.S. college or university must earn a score of 600 or better on the paper-based TOEFL or 100 on the internet-based TOEFL, with a minimum of 20 on the speaking section. Scores must be sent directly to the Smeal College MBA office (code 2660).

I have taken the IELTS. Do I need to take the TOEFL?

While we prefer that the students take TOEFL, we do accept valid IELTS scores (7.0 minimum) as well as an alternative to TOEFL scores.

Are there circumstances in which the TOEFL can be waived?

International candidates may be exempt from the TOEFL if any of the following apply:

The candidate has received a degree from a U.S. college/university/institution.

The candidate has received a baccalaureate or a masters degree from a college/university/institution in any of the following: Australia, Belize, British Caribbean and British West Indies, Canada (except Quebec), England, Guyana, Republic of Ireland, Liberia, New Zealand, Northern Ireland, Scotland, and Wales.

The candidate is a U.S. Permanent Resident.

While some countries education systems are predominantly English, the TOEFL is required for consistent evaluation across areas.

How long is the TOEFL valid?

TOEFL scores are valid for two years. This validity period is set by ETS, the official group that administers the TOEFL test.

I'm an international student but have been living in the US for several years. Can I waive my TOEFL?

International candidates may be exempt from the TOEFL if any of the following apply:

The candidate has received a degree from a U.S. college/university/institution.

The candidate has received a baccalaureate or a masters degree from a college/university/institution in a country where English is both the language of instruction and the only official or native language or are a permanent resident of the United States. Countries that would qualify an applicant as eligible for a TOEFL/IELTS exemption as described above include Australia, Belize, British Caribbean and British West Indies, Canada (except Quebec), England, Guyana, Ireland, Liberia, New Zealand, Scotland, the United States, and Wales.

The candidate is a U.S. Permanent Resident.

Are there circumstances in which the GMAT/GRE can be waived?

A GMAT or GRE score is required of all applicants (with the exception of MD/MBA joint program applicants. They are required to submit MCAT scores for consideration).

How long is the GMAT/GRE valid?

Scores are valid for five years.

Is there one section you weight more heavily than another on the GMAT/GRE?

No. We will look at your overall performance.

If I take the GMAT or GRE more than once, which score will you take?

We take the highest OVERALL score. We will NOT take the highest math or the highest verbal from different test administrations and combine them.

What if I take the GRE and the GMAT? Which will you consider?

We will look at your overall testing history for either/both exams, but we will officially consider the highest test score reported.

Is there a minimum Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT/GRE) score or GPA required for admission?

No, there are no minimum thresholds for GMAT/GRE or GPA. Your application is evaluated in its entirety. The average GMAT for the incoming class was 649 with the mid 80% range of 550 to 720. The average GPA for the incoming class was 3.4.

I need to have my official GMAT score report sent to Smeal. What is your school code?

The Smeal school code for GMAT is ZZ8-HD-34, the code for GRE is 2660.

What is the school code for TOEFL?

The Smeal school code for TOEFL is 2660. It is referred to as "Penn State All Campuses"

What is the average GPA for the incoming class?

The average GPA for the incoming class was 3.4.

If I have received multiple bachelors or masters degrees, which GPA do you consider?

Your undergraduate GPA is the required part of your application. In case of multiple bachelors or Masters Degrees we place more emphasis on the trends in improvement of your GPA as opposed to raw numbers.

If I have a lower than average GPA, will I be considered? How do I demonstrate my ability to succeed in the program?

Taking additional classes can help along with a very strong GMAT score. Both of these are considered as other indicators of academic potential. We will also use other parts of your application to assess your overall potential for success in the program. GMAT will carry more weight as a measure of how well will you do in your core classes.

Can a strong GMAT/GRE neutralize a low GPA or vice-versa?

A strong GPA can point to your ability to perform well academically, however the whole application is evaluated, so we do not directly trade off GMAT/GRE with GPA or vice versa. GPA measures past performance over a prolonged time period whereas GMAT/GRE measures current potential with a significant time constraint. We therefore look for trends to identify what these indicators and the rest of your application tell us about your ability to succeed in the program.

Application Statistics, Deadlines, Interviews and Admission decisions

Can you tell me about the profile statistics of the MBA class at Smeal?

Is there any advantage in applying in any particular round? What would maximize my chances of getting admitted?

Since the admission decisions are made on a rolling basis, it is to your advantage to apply as early as you are ready. The admissions committee cannot predict the quality of future applications, and is therefore inclined to admit well-qualified applicants early in the process. In addition, early application ensures that you will receive a decision earlier. However, it is important not to rush your application. We encourage you to take the time necessary to submit a thoughtful, well-prepared application. Regardless of the round in which your application has been submitted, the admissions committee will give full and fair consideration to your candidacy.

Is there any pre-decided number of students who would be admitted in each round?

No. The applications are reviewed and admission decisions are made on a rolling basis. So it is in your best interest to send in your application as soon as you are ready. Our class size is flexible and varies each year.

How can I check the status of my application?

The only accurate way to check the status of your application and what materials have been received is to email us smealmba@psu.edu.

Is an Interview required?

Interviews are required of all candidates admitted to the Smeal MBA. For each deadline, the admissions committee selects individuals to invite for an admissions interview.

Is it better to do an interview in person; does a webcam interview have the same weight?

In general, face-to-face interviews are preferable, but we also offer webcam interviews to those candidates who are unable to visit with us personally.

Webcam interviews (through programs such as Skype) help make our interviews more personable and allow us to get to know a candidate better.

When should I expect an interview invitation?

The applications are reviewed on a rolling basis and interview invitations are sent out within 3-4 weeks of the review of your application generally on a first come first serve basis.

Are all applicants interviewed?

Interviews are conducted by invitation only, so not all Smeal MBA applicants are interviewed. For each deadline, the admissions committee selects individuals to invite for an admissions interview. All candidates admitted to the program conduct an admissions interview.

How should I prepare for the interview?

The purpose of the interview is to better understand you as an MBA candidate for our program. We encourage you to relax and be ready to talk about your goals, your experiences and your MBA aspirations. This is our best opportunity to get to know you beyond your application. It gives us an opportunity to take you "off paper" and get to know you as a person. We should both come away from the interview with a better sense of fit between you and the Smeal MBA.

When will I receive my decision letter?

Application decisions are made on a rolling basis. Specifically, you'll hear back from us not later than December 1 (for applications received by the October 1 deadline); February 1 (for applications received by the December 1 deadline); April 1 (for applications received by the February 1 deadline); and June 1 (for applications received by the April 1 deadline).

I applied to the program in an early deadline and have received notification that I will not be admitted. Can I re-submit my application for a later deadline in the same year to be re-considered?

Applicants are only eligible to apply once per year. To ensure fairness and equity of the process, applicants may not be reviewed a second time after a decision is made.

Is it possible to get feedback on my application if not granted acceptance?

Yes. If you were not offered admission and would like to know where your application fell short, contact us via e-mail at smealmba@psu.edu and request feedback on your admissions application. We will schedule an appointment to discuss your application in detail after the admissions cycle is complete for that year - between June through August of each year.

Does the Business school grant deferrals?

Yes, we do offer deferment for a period up to one year. However, we do require payment of the enrollment deposit to hold your spot for the next admissions cycle.

If I receive financial aid and request a deferment, may I also defer the financial aid?

Generally, no. Financial aid awards may not be deferred. Financial aid awards are made each year, based on the annual aid budget. If you defer your admission, you will automatically go into the pool for aid consideration in the next admissions cycle. Some extenuating circumstances do apply and we will discuss each situation individually.

Re-applicants

May I reapply if I wasn't accepted previously?

Yes. You will however, need to write a new essay. You might choose to change your recommenders or email us and we will retain your old recommendations. If you are a re-applicant please contact us at: smealmba@psu.edu to obtain an application fee waiver code.

If I am reapplying, do I need to pay the application fee again?

No, it is not necessary to pay the application fee a second time. If you are reapplying to the program please contact us at: smealmba@psu.edu to obtain an application fee waiver code.

If I was not admitted earlier and want to re-apply, what can I do to increase my chances of admission?

Most re-applicants try to improve one or more of their GMAT/GRE, GPA, and work experience aspects of their applications. Many of our re-applicants retake the GMAT/GRE to improve their scores. Applicants also try to gain more diverse work experience or increase their years of experience. Our best suggestion is to request a feedback appointment to discuss recommendations specific to you.

Work experience

Is work experience required, or can I apply right out of my undergraduate program?

You may apply immediately after finishing a bachelor's degree, but on average our students have nearly 4-5 years of full-time work experience prior to entering the MBA program. Applicants admitted directly into the MBA program without full-time work experience generally have superb academic credentials; evidence of leadership through extracurricular or community activities; and quality part-time, summer, and /or internship work experience. These applicants are mature and self-confident and can effectively articulate the reasons why they wish to attend business school at this time.

What type of work experience are you looking for in the admission process?

Successful candidates will have relevant, full-time professional work experience prior to applying to the Smeal MBA Program. On average, admitted candidates to the Smeal MBA Program have 4-5 years of work experience. No one industry or field is favored over another. We evaluate both the quantity and quality of your work experience with particular attention given to progress of responsibility, leadership ability, and strong team skills.

Does time spent in the military count as work experience?

Absolutely. We welcome candidates from military backgrounds and do count their years in the military towards their work experience.

Is working full-time as a student considered the same as working full time after graduating?

Statistically only post-undergraduate work experience is counted. The primary rationale is that post graduate employment is usually at a higher level and more relevant in preparing you for an MBA experience. During your application review we do look at all prior experience and working full-time while in school can factor favorably into an assessment of your dedication, while internships and co-ops aid in your business perspective.

I have just completed my undergraduate program in engineering. Should I work in engineering field or business field to be competitive for my MBA admission after 2-3 years?

There is no perfect job or kind of work experience for being competitive in MBA admissions. The admissions committee encourages candidates from diverse backgrounds. What matters really is the quality of your work experience irrespective of your field contribution, initiative for taking responsibilities, demonstrated leadership skills and teamwork.

I have less than your average of 5 years of work experience. Will this place me at a disadvantage in the admissions process?

The admissions committee reviews your application in its entirety. While the number of years of experience is important, the committee also places emphasis on the quality of your work experience. If you have demonstrated leadership and team skills, then even lesser number of years of experience might not be to your disadvantage. In exceptional cases, students straight out of their undergraduate degree may also be offered admission into the MBA program if they have demonstrated strong professional maturity and excellence in other areas.

Smeal offers scholarships and assistantships to many students each year. They are awarded based on merit using the admission criteria that considers academic ability, work experience, leadership skills, and overall fit with the program.

All applicants are automatically considered for funding and there is no additional application for these awards. For full consideration, candidates should apply by the February 1 application deadline.

Scholarships

Funded by alumni and friends of Penn State to attract outstanding students, these one-time awards typically range from $5,000 to $10,000. In recent years, approximately 20 percent of incoming students have received a scholarship.

Assistantships

Assistantships are two-year awards funded by Penn State to attract outstanding students and to provide support to fulfill the University's Mission. Recipients work 10 hours per week for the Smeal College with responsibilities ranging from assisting faculty to working in one of Smeal's research centers.

In return, students receive a 100% waiver of tuition, subsidized health insurance, and a stipend of approximately $7,000/academic year. In a student's second year, some assistantships are adjusted to 20 hours per week with a corresponding doubling of the stipend to approximately $14,000.

What opportunities exist for me to work in order to finance my MBA education?

Some students work part time in pre-existing roles or jobs throughout the town. This is relatively rare as students are primarily engaged in their MBA studies. We recommend working no more than 10 hours per week in the first year.

You can work as a Graduate Assistant if awarded a GA by the admissions committee. GA Recipients work 10 hours per week for the Smeal College with responsibilities ranging from assisting faculty to working in one of Smeal's research centers. In return, students receive a 100 percent waiver of tuition, subsidized health insurance, and a stipend of approximately $6,500/academic year. In a student's second year, some assistantships are adjusted to 20 hours per week with a corresponding doubling of the stipend to approximately $13,000.

Is there financial aid available for non-United States citizens?

Yes. Non United-States students are considered for scholarship and financial aid provided by Smeal. Typically financial aid that non US citizens are eligible for include scholarships and assistantships. There is no additional application for these awards. For full consideration, candidates should apply by the February 1 application deadline.

Scholarships

Funded by alumni and friends of Penn State to attract outstanding students, these one-time awards typically range from $5,000 to $10,000. In recent years, approximately 20 percent of incoming students have received a scholarship.

Assistantships

Assistantships are two-year awards funded by Penn State to attract outstanding students and to provide support to fulfill the University's Mission. Recipients work 10 hours per week for the Smeal College with responsibilities ranging from assisting faculty to working in one of Smeal's research centers.

In return, students receive a 100 percent waiver of tuition, subsidized health insurance, and a stipend of approximately $7,000/academic year. In a student's second year, some assistantships are adjusted to 20 hours per week with a corresponding doubling of the stipend to approximately $14,000.

How do I apply for financial aid?

All applications submitted by the February 1 deadline are automatically considered for financial aid awards. There is no separate application needed.

What are the criteria for fellowship / assistantship / scholarship nomination?

Award criteria are set by the donors. Some specifically target under-represented minorities. Others are specific to industry or academic interest. All are based on academic merit.

When do I apply for loans and external scholarships?

You should apply for loans and external scholarships after you are admitted. Based on your admit date you will have a specific deadline as to when your external scholarship applications (domestic students) are due. In order to expedite the application process, we encourage you to prepare your tax return early and complete the FAFSA (domestic applicants only) as soon as possible. International students can also get student loans provided they have a US co-signer.

When do I apply for the FAFSA and how often will I need to complete one?

You should complete your FAFSA as soon as you have a completed tax return; you will need the FAFSA for any school's financial aid allocation process. You will need to complete a FAFSA at the beginning of each academic year if you are applying for loans and/or scholarships.

What are the criteria for awarding financial aid (GA, TA fellowships etc.) at Smeal?

All scholarships and assistantships are awarded based on merit using the same criteria that is used for the admission decision. The criteria include multiple factors such as academic ability, work experience, fit with the program, leadership skills etc. All applicants are automatically considered for funding and there is no additional application for these awards.

International applicants

International applications can be submitted through all deadlines and therefore can be submitted up until the final deadline of April 1.

When will I be issued my I-20?

To complete your I-20 process you will work directly with the Penn State Office of Global Programs. Your I-20 can be issued only after you have officially been admitted, enrolled and paid your $1,000 enrollment deposit.

I only have one original copy of my undergraduate transcripts and do not want to send them. What can I do?

This is a common mistake. We do not require an original copy of your undergraduate transcripts, we require an official copy which your school should be able to issue (sometimes for a fee) to you at your request.

Interaction with current students

What are the ways in which I can interact with the current students at Smeal?

You can interact with the current students through one or more of the many listed ways:

Campus visits: You can visit the campus by attending our pre-scheduled campus visit events called "MBA Open Houses" or by scheduling an individual campus visit

Online and Off Campus Opportunities to Connect: Visit the events page of the website to view virtual opportunities to interact with current students, such as webcasts and chats, as well as chances to visit us on campus or interact with our alumni, students, or staff on the road. Current students are also active on our social media platforms, and we encourage you to engage with them there.

Phone and email: You could also call to chat with a current student or email them. Call us to make arrangements to talk to a current student or speak directly with admissions - US 814-863-0474 or 800-379-6445 (toll free within the U.S.)

May I meet with someone in the admissions committee / current students /alumni? Can prospective students visit the campus?

Yes. Smeal offers prospective students numerous opportunities to meet admissions committee, current students and professors. We encourage prospective students to visit our campus to get a better understanding of the program. A personal visit is the best way to help you experience the curriculum and culture, and to determine the program that's the best fit for you. We offer both group visits and individual visits, depending on your schedule and preference. For those who cannot visit we recommend interacting virtually by attending online events, contacting current students and following ongoing communications. We are also active on multiple social media platforms, and invite you to connect with admissions, students and alumni in these locations as well.

Can I attend classes when I visit the campus?

Yes. You will have the opportunity to attend a class when you visit the campus. Usually an on campus visit includes information on the program, application tips, a tour, and a live MBA class. During these visits, you will have the opportunity to interact with the entire MBA community.

I am an international student and cannot visit. Are there any events that I can participate in?

Yes, Smeal periodically organizes online opportunities via Skype with prospective students in order to enable students have their specific queries answered as well as to help students get a better understanding of the program at Smeal. We also have webcasts that are online audio and visual presentations that offer relevant information quickly.